Fake NBA Trade of the Day 6/26/16: Gallo to Philly

Every day, Pick and Popovich will post one fake trade and explain why it makes sense for every team involved to make it. There are no parameters beyond fitting within the salary cap. Sometimes the trades will involve stars, others role players. They are not grounded in actual rumors, they just make sense on paper. During the 2016 NBA Playoffs, each week will feature seven fake trades of one star player. This is Danilo Gallinari Week.

Denver Nuggets Receive:

Nerlens Noel

Philadelphia 76ers Receive:

Danilo Gallinari

Why Denver would make this trade: As was the case with the Cleveland trade, Nerlens Noel gives Denver the young rim-protector they need. That he’s still on a rookie contract is a nice bonus.

Why Philadelphia would make this trade: If Philly can’t find a worthwhile trade for Jahlil Okafor, this would be a nice way to save face if they just don’t want to extend Noel. Gallo gives them their first significant veteran of the Hinkie/post-Hinkie era, which is a nice touch of credibility for them among owners who are still bitter at their lack of competitiveness over the past few years. Worst case scenario, they swap him for picks at the deadline, no harm done.